Sylvia Teresa Rodriguez

There are no words to adequately express her energy, vibrance, intelligence and undeniable beauty.

She was born in San Antonio, Texas on October 3,1928 to Cenobia and Procopio Garza. Sylvia was the youngest of seven siblings. Her family held great interest in the social and political activities of the day, as well as a profound love of music and dance, which they imparted to all of their children. Sylvia, while a young woman, had offers to go into show business, and follow in the steps of her sister, Eva Garza, a renowned singer and movie star. Sylvia often told the story of being offered a movie contract, only to shortly thereafter meet the love of her life, David Garcia Rodriguez. She turned down all offers leading to fame to follow her heart. Sylvia and David were married for 24 years.

Sylvia participated in community service throughout her life. In her early years as a mother, Sylvia was a member of the Meadow Creek Civic Club, volunteering her time as an exercise instructor and crafts teacher for the neighborhood, and taught remedial reading to elementary students at Patterson Elementary, where her children attended school. She also co-founded with her husband, a tennis team for the Junior League (where their girl’s team won all district). After the death of her spouse in 1974, Sylvia went to work outside the home for the first time in twenty four years to support her family.

Sylvia held many positions over the years with the Houston Export Crating Company. She held the positions of Purchasing Director, Inventory Controller, Director of Traffic and Receiving and was the Manager of Public Relations with foreign accounts. Her desire to experience and contribute to the world in meaningful ways was always present. Upon her retirement, Sylvia volunteered to campaign for Rick Noriega for State Representative in 1998. After his election, Sylvia worked for him for nine years as his Community Liaison. She frequently worked for projects with Houston’s Greater East End District, and was a formidable advocate for Latino youth and those neighborhoods underrepresented in the City of Houston. Sylvia then subsequently worked in the offices of State Representative Carol Alvarado and Senator Mario Gallegos. She retired for the second time in 2009, at the age of 80. Her remaining years spent in Buda and Kyle Texas found Sylvia “making the rounds” with neighborhood associations, churches, libraries and the like. She befriended the mayor of Buda, and quickly became a staunch advocate for elderly rights. She assisted in the creation of “Drive a Senior,” and frequently volunteered at Buda’s church run food bank program. Upon entering the assisted living center, The Philomena, Sylvia continued to speak out for the betterment of her peers. Sylvia befriended both staff and residents so much so that during her final days she was visited and comforted by everyone. To conclude, it is most important to understand that despite living a life, both full, interesting and meaningful in the world, Sylvia valued her children and family first and foremost. She will be forever in our hearts.

Surviving Family Members and Spouses are: Noel and Darla, Philip and Meredith, Leticia and Ken, Mario, and Carla and Mike; Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren are: Lori Anne and great-grandchildren, Ashley and Jordan; Carrie and Luke and and great-grandson Cruz; David Evan Rodriguez; Hans and Anna Grethe Gotun; Nicole and Travis and great-grandchildren Abigail and Derek; Bianca and Brian and great-grandchildren, Cota and Bowie; Paloma and Cody and great-grandchildren, Anaya and Elias; Michele and Cody and great-granddaughter, Callie; Nathan and Anna and great-grand-children, Caitlin and Morgana; Marisa and Jake; Wilse, Jacob, Zachary Rodriguez and Noah Rodriguez.

She was preceded by her husband David Garcia Rodriguez and her son, David Roland Rodriguez.

A visitation for Sylvia will be held Thursday, May 18, 2023 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Forest Park East Funeral Home, 21620 Gulf Freeway, Webster, Texas 77598.

A funeral service will occur Thursday, May 18, 2023 at 10:00 AM followed by a graveside service at 11:00 AM at Forest Park East Cemetery, 21620 Gulf Freeway, Webster, Texas 77598.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charities that are listed below.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ForestParkEast-FHC.com for the Rodriguez family.